President William Ruto has been awarded the Order of Dostyk during his two day state visit to Kazakhstan.

The order, which is regarded as the highest honour in the Central Asian country, was presented by Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Ruto took to his official X account on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, expressing his acceptance of the honorary award, which serves as a powerful diplomatic symbol recognising efforts to strengthen international cooperation between Kenya and Kazakhstan.

“Deeply humbled and profoundly honoured to receive the Order of Dostyk (Friendship), First Degree, one of the highest distinctions by the Government of Kazakhstan. This award is a testament to the enduring friendship between Kenya and Kazakhstan,” Ruto said.

He further noted that the award reflects both nations shared commitment to peace, cooperation, and cultural enrichment across continents.

The award, whose name “Dostyk” translates to “Friendship,” is a powerful diplomatic symbol recognising efforts to strengthen international cooperation, mutual respect, and peaceful relations between Kazakhstan and partner countries.

Notably, the Order of Dostyk is part of Kazakhstan’s national honours system and is issued in two classes, First Degree and Second Degree, with the First Degree being the highest level.

President Ruto was awarded the First Degree, marking it the highest level of the award.

Also, the Order of Dostyk is typically reserved for presidents, prime ministers, senior diplomats, and global leaders who have made exceptional contributions to bilateral or multilateral relations involving Kazakhstan.

Inside Order of Dostyk award

Worth noting, the Order of Dostyk is a recognition of diplomatic friendship between nations.

The award serves as a diplomatic instrument used by Kazakhstan to acknowledge and reinforce partnerships that promote peace, economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and global understanding.

Recipients of the honour are selected for their role in strengthening diplomatic relations with Kazakhstan, advancing trade and investment cooperation and promoting peace and international stability.

Others include supporting cultural and educational exchange and deepening mutual understanding between peoples.

The First Degree is particularly prestigious and is usually awarded to sitting heads of state or exceptionally influential global figures whose engagement with Kazakhstan has strategic importance.